JRA Accepting Applications for 7th Annual “Floating Classroom”

The James River Association is accepting applications for the 7th Annual James River Expedition, “a floating classroom” where students paddle down the 340-mile length of the James River. High school students within the James River watershed are encouraged to apply before the Friday, March 10 deadline.

Students selected for the program will have the opportunity to go on one of three week-long trips that collectively travel the length of the James River over the summer. During the Expedition, beginning June 25, participants will learn about conservation, responsible stewardship and the river’s history while camping and traveling aboard canoes, kayaks and bateaux rafts. They will meet a diverse group of business owners, farmers and others along the way to learn about their livelihoods and the many uses for the river. This once in a lifetime learning adventure focuses on building confidence and leadership in participants while helping them understand the importance of the river and the future challenges for keeping it healthy.

No previous paddling or camping experience is required. Educational staff will provide expert instruction on paddling, camping, and teambuilding. Students who care about environmental stewardship, have a curiosity about the river, and enjoy leadership and teamwork are encouraged to apply. Thirty positions are available.

Since 2011, more than 166 students and 26 teachers from 42 schools across Virginia have participated in the Expedition.

“We’re excited to once again offer this unique experience to the next generation of river stewards,” said Bill Street, CEO for the James River Association. “Over the past six years, students have had life changing experiences spending a week on the James River and learning how it impacts our lives as Virginians. We’re incredibly proud that they then take this knowledge back to their schools, families and communities to help ensure a healthy future for the James.”

The James River Association is also seeking three public high-school educators to help lead the Expedition trips. Educators from all disciplines are encouraged to apply to join this team. The deadline for teacher applications is also March 10.

The 7th Annual James River Expedition is funded through the generosity of the Norfolk Southern Foundation and several Richmond-area foundations.

About Andy Thompson

I was the Outdoors Columnist at the Times-Dispatch from 2007 to 2013, writing twice a week about mountain biking, fishing, hunting, paddling and much more. I live a 1/4 mile from the James River, close enough to see bald eagles soaring over my house on their way to find a meal. Pretty cool, eh?